THE POSITIVES:
– The opener between Austin Aries and Brian Kendrick was a very good match. What made it awkward for the television audience was the live crowd. They were pro-Aries the entire time. I've read where some writers blame that mostly on the Philly crowd and while they are definitely a breed that marches to their own beat, I think Kendrick's inability to connect is the biggest issue. Personally, I like his character – but I don't think most do. And I can understand why. They either need to scale the actual "gimmick" part of his gimmick down a ton or they simply need to change it completely. He's too talented in the ring to "not" get over as much as he's not getting over with most audiences.
– RVD and Jerry Lynn gave fans exactly what was to be expected. It was a good throw back match and both men tried hard.
– Hulk Hogan vs Sting. I'm sure everyone, including myself, expected a train wreck of a match between these two. By Aries/Kendrick or Styles/Daniels standards, it was. But for Sting and Hogan, it was much better than I anticipated. Sting made Hogan look like he still "had it" by bumping around like a mad man, but give Hogan credit where it's due – he's still Hulk Hogan. He knows how to work the crowd and last night was further proof of that. The face turn didn't make sense at the end. I hear many writers shouting that from the rooftops – as loud as they can – over and over…so what? I've hated just about every moment of Hogan's time on TNA television since he turned heel! He's a commodity act and no more at this point in his career. The fans want to cheer for Hogan (in small doses) – let them cheer.
Nick was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, and lived there until the age of 18, when he decided to pack his flack jacket and move to New York City.
